Snow and ice

Your home insurance policy protects you in case of damage caused by snow and freezing rain, but it all depends on the coverage you chose when you purchased your home insurance policy.

Mother Nature always has a few surprises in store for us no matter the season. Some winters, for example, she may decide to send us several centimeters of snow … or freezing rain.

One of the large branches from your maple tree cracks under the weight of the snow and damages your home. Or the contents of your freezer defrost because of a prolonged power outage. Or your above-ground pool collapses under the weight of the ice.

Can’t stay in your home?

Talk to your insurer to find out what compensation you’re entitled to, where applicable. Ask for a cash advance, if needed. Keep all receipts and invoices for lodging and food expenses incurred following the loss.

Call your insurer as soon as possible. He’ll ask you to describe the exact circumstances and the damage suffered in order to establish whether your policy covers the damages. Depending on the type and extent of the insured damage, he’ll tell you what to do.

Unless they’re a health hazard, don’t throw out damaged items right away. And don’t make permanent repairs before speaking to your insurer. If you need to do emergency repairs to prevent further damage, keep the invoices or receipts.